It was well into Autumn and the populace of Dale and Erebor busied themselves with preparations for the Durin's Day celebrations. The start of the Dwarves New Year was cause for a yearly celebration, enjoyed by the entire population of Dale and Erebor, including the Royal Family. Most notable was the elaborate feast, held yearly on 22 October. The Dale Marketplace, in particular, was renowned for displaying some of the finest items in Middle Earth. Eiranna's home bordered the Courtyard that the yearly Marketplace was held. Eiranna was organizing the booth Donar would use to showcase and sell his works, and, hopefully, acquire more contracts for custom pieces. The door to her home was ajar as she brought items out to be displayed. Her father had left to seek further supplies from another vendor, promising to return as quickly as he could. All around her, merchants busied themselves making their own preparations, paying her no mind.
Eiranna was gathering more items to be brought outside when she sensed someone behind her. She turned and saw Thorin stood in the entryway, leaning against the frame. "Oh, hello," she said, surprised to see him. "It appears you may need some assistance," he observed, a smile played at corner of his mouth.
"If it would not be too much trouble," Eiranna answered, as she approached him. Thorin nodded. Eiranna transferred a portion of that she carried to Thorin's arms. He allowed her to take the lead and followed closely behind.
The two reached the table outside the doorway and Eiranna set what she carried onto it and, as she wondered why he had come, began to take the items from his arms. "Will you be attending the feast tomorrow evening?" Thorin asked, as she went about freeing his arms.
"Yes. My father enjoys it immensely and I'm certain would grieve if he was unable to go" Eiranna answered with a mischievous grin. Thorin chuckled. "What of yourself?" she inquired, taking the last of what he held from his arms.
"Yes. I will make an appearance. My Grandfather insists upon it," he answered as he resumed leaning against the doorframe.
"It will be a marvelous celebration. I am sure you will enjoy yourself." Eiranna smiled, before she returned her gaze to the items sitting upon the table and started to shift them around. Her words were met with silence, and, after a moment, she turned to Thorin to find he was studying her intently.
"I should hope you will save me a dance," he murmured. Eiranna was caught off guard by his statement, but not displeased. She could not help the smile that began to form upon her lips. "If it pleases you, m'Lord," she answered softly, turning her gaze towards the table in an attempt to hide her pleasure, as well as her embarrassment.
Thorin stepped towards Eiranna and moved his head close until he was mere inches from her. "It would please me greatly," he said softy, tilting his head slightly. Eiranna could feel a blush begin to form over her cheeks. She cast a sideways glance at Thorin and nodded. "As you wish. I would be delighted." Eiranna did not make a motion to distance herself from Thorin, curious to see what he might do next.
"Thorin!" Eiranna jumped at the sound of her father's voice and swiftly put distance between herself and Thorin. He straightened himself and turned to greet Donar. "What has brought you to these parts?" Donar asked, clapping a hand upon Thorin's shoulder. "My brother wished to have an early look at the weapons being featured tomorrow. I happened to notice Eiranna struggling to carry what is seen before you and I offered her my help," he replied.
"Is that so? That was quite good of you. I suppose I should not have wandered off when I did," he said, eyeing Eiranna curiously. "I will be inside, if you should need me," Donar continued, as he made his way towards the entryway.
"As it appears that Eiranna is no longer in need, I will leave you both be," said Thorin, before he turned and stepped away from them. "Please accept my thanks for your assistance," Eiranna called towards his retreating form. Thorin turned his head to the side and offered her the briefest of nods before continuing away.